My Mindful Mantra

When learning to meditate it is often useful to have something to center your attention.  Focusing on breathing is the most common technique.  But concentrating on a word/phase (a mantra) or small poems or prayers (gathas) in addition to breathing can also be very useful.  I often use mantras and gathas along with prayer beads when my mind is especially active and I’m having trouble coming back to my breathe during my meditations.  I use this strategy when my life is exceptionally busy or stressful.

I combine my favorite mantras and gatha into a string that calms and centers my mind and body.  I repeat each section three times before going on to the next mantra.  

 I honor my inner self

I bow to my true nature

May I be free of the struggle that comes from focusing on the past and the future

May I find peace in this present moment

May I live my life with compassion

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change

The courage to change the things I can

The wisdom to know the difference

The quiet stillness to see and feel your grace

What is your favorite mantra or gatha and how do you use it in your practice?  Please consider sharing a comment on the blog.  Your thoughts will help nurture the Age Well Be Well community.